Sacramento police and the Downtown Sacramento Partnership introduce a vehicle restriction strategy to curb late-night crime at the Old Sacramento Waterfront.
SACRAMENTO, California — Sacramento police and the Downtown Sacramento Partnership have launched a new strategy aimed at reducing late-night crime at the Old Sacramento Waterfront, with vehicle restrictions taking effect immediately on weekend nights.
The announcement comes after what the Downtown Sacramento Partnership described as an increase in late-night disturbances and crime, including a recent 3 a.m. stabbing that left five people hurt. According to a news release, the criminal activity happens after bars and restaurants close, when people drive and park.
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Beginning at 10 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the Sacramento Police Department will implement a safety tactic known as a Cooling Period. During those hours, vehicle traffic will be limited to the exterior streets of Sacramento’s original historic neighborhood, while a juvenile curfew will continue to be strictly enforced.
Drivers will still be able to access 2nd Street from Capitol Mall and I Street, but vehicle access beyond 2nd Street into Old Sacramento Waterfront will be restricted. Pedestrians will still have access to open businesses, and vehicles already parked within the area can still leave.
“Old Sacramento Waterfront requires immediate city-backed tactics to prevent future incidents to the best of everyone’s ability,” says Michael Ault, Executive Director of Downtown Sacramento Partnership. “Cities all over the country are facing similar safety challenges, but there are also districts that are successfully mitigating and managing them with creative solutions. We’re grateful to the Sacramento Police Department and the City of Sacramento for their support in increased efforts, and their willingness to work creatively with us and send a strong message.”
The Downtown Sacramento Partnership said it has expanded its safety efforts over the past five years following the pandemic. Those efforts include advocating for a downtown bike patrol hub to reduce police response times, hiring additional private security, expanding safety technology, improving lighting and implementing other safety measures.
Ault said the new program may require adjustments as it is implemented but said the partnership is encouraged by its collaboration with public safety partners.
“The Sacramento Police Department will continue to evaluate the needs of the area and adjust our staffing and enforcement strategies as appropriate,” said Interim Chief of Police Zachary Bales. “We remain committed to working alongside residents, businesses, and community partners to address concerns, strengthen public safety, and hold those who commit crimes accountable.”
Families call for improved safety after five people were stabbed in Old Sacramento
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